Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Band

 

Messiah College Symphonic Winds is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1970 at Messiah College in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. The ensemble is made up of approximately 60 student musicians who are selected through an audition process. The group is led by Dr. Bradley Genevro, who has been the director of bands at Messiah College since 2005. The ensemble's repertoire includes a wide range of classical music, including works by composers such as Gustav Holst, John Williams, and Johann Sebastian Bach. The group also performs contemporary pieces and commissions new works from composers. One of the highlights of the ensemble's performances was their appearance at the 2017 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) State Conference. The group was selected to perform at the conference after a rigorous audition process. The ensemble performed a program that included works by Frank Ticheli, Percy Grainger, and John Mackey. In addition to their performance at the PMEA State Conference, the ensemble has also performed at the Eastern Division Conference of the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) and the National Conference of the CBDNA. These performances have earned the group a reputation as one of the top college wind ensembles in the country. The ensemble has also received numerous awards and accolades for their performances. In 2016, the group was awarded the Sudler Flag of Honor, which is given to outstanding college and university marching bands and wind ensembles. The group was the first college wind ensemble in Pennsylvania to receive this award. The ensemble has also been recognized for their commitment to new music. In 2018, the group commissioned a new work by composer David Maslanka. The piece, titled "Symphony No. 10," was premiered by the ensemble at their spring concert. The ensemble's main members include students from a variety of majors, including music education, music performance, and music business. The group is open to all students at Messiah College, regardless of major. The ensemble rehearses twice a week and performs several concerts each year. Overall, Messiah College Symphonic Winds is a highly respected classical music ensemble that has earned a reputation for excellence in performance and commitment to new music. The group's dedication to their craft and their passion for classical music has made them a beloved fixture in the music community at Messiah College and beyond.

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